Mettle Mentoring
When young people leave custody they face many challenges, both practical and emotional. Statutory services provide ongoing assistance, but there is also a need for more informal support. This is where the church can provide an effective service. Reflex works in partnership with statutory and voluntary agencies to provide comprehensive and tailored support.
Those young people who have attended the Mettle group are linked with a relevant, lively, local church, in order that they can continue on their journey with God. A welcoming church is vital if the young person is to be discipled and grow in faith and maturity.
There are 3 volunteers from the church who will care for the ex-offender:
The mentor will provide care, support and spiritual mentoring.
The practical helper will assist with forms, budgeting, cooking, work or other needs.
The 3rd person is a friend, someone to get alongside the ex-offender and introduce them into a friendship group, take them to the cinema etc.
Volunteers are trained in child protection procedures, behaviour management and mentoring good practice. Where appropriate, volunteers liaise with child protection coordinators and youth workers in the church. They are supported and supervised by the leadership of the church and the Reflex Resettlement Worker. An out of hours helpline is also provided to mentors and churches.
